Tent camping near Sherwood, Wisconsin centers around the Kettle Moraine State Forest region, where glacial landforms create diverse camping terrain approximately 850-1,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences warm summers with average highs in the upper 70s, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature fluctuations that can dip into the 40s overnight. Several campgrounds offer tent-specific sites with varying amenities and seasonal availability throughout the region.
What to do
Water activities on private beaches: At Camp Shin-Go-Beek, campers have access to a private beach for swimming and floating. "A short walk to the private beach at the lake" is a highlight according to one camper who notes the site is "incredibly peaceful with a ton of beautiful birds singing throughout the day."
Explore obstacle courses: Camp Wilderness offers unique recreational facilities including an obstacle course and nearby lake access. As one visitor mentions, "There's primarily tent sites with trails, a lake, an obstacle course and more right nearby," making it particularly appealing for families with active children.
Riverside camping: Tent campers looking for water proximity can utilize the sites at Waubedonia County Park in Fredonia. The park provides "a nice little campground near the river" with sites described as "inexpensive and comfortable" though with fewer amenities than larger facilities.
What campers like
Group camping space: Tent campers appreciate the expansive sites at Greenbush Group Campground, where the largest spots accommodate multiple tents. Sites feature "grassy sites surrounded by trees (plenty for hammocks too)" with convenient access to necessary facilities like "pit toilets and drinking water" within short walking distance.
Bird watching opportunities: The natural setting around several Sherwood-area campgrounds supports diverse bird populations. Campers at Camp Shin-Go-Beek specifically mention enjoying "a ton of beautiful birds singing throughout the day" as part of the peaceful atmosphere.
Access from urban areas: Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp receives positive reviews for its accessibility. One camper notes it's "easily accessible from Milwaukee," making it convenient for weekend tent camping trips from nearby cities.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Access to drinking water can differ by season and campground policies. At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, one camper observed that "water is usually available, but more limited during the pandemic (spigot turned off by our campsite, but available near the parking lot at the entrance - a longer walk)."
Sound carries between sites: Despite visual separation between tent sites at many campgrounds, noise can travel easily. At Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp, campers report that sites are "visually separated, but not far enough away from each other to block louder noise - we could hear loud music from the site 4 late into the night."
Storm shelter options: During severe weather, Camp Shin-Go-Beek provides emergency accommodations. A camper reported that their host "even checked on us to offer shelter in the admin building before a storm rolled through," indicating staff attentiveness to safety concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused programming: Families with children should consider Camp Wilderness for its youth-oriented activities. A reviewer states it's "a great place" if "you have kids looking for adventure" and mentions it's "primarily used for a program similar to Boy Scouts called Royal Rangers," making it ideal to "initiate your kids with the outdoors and teach them fun skills."
Age considerations: When selecting activities around Camp Wilderness, parents should plan based on children's developmental stages. One visitor mentioned looking "forward to the day when my kids are old enough to fully engage" with the available activities.
Repeat visit value: Family campers often find returning to the same campground beneficial. At Camp Shin-Go-Beek, one family "loved this spot so much, we went back the following summer, and it was just as relaxing," indicating consistent quality and child-friendly amenities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Tent campers requiring electricity should consider Waubedonia County Park, which offers electric hookups despite its small size. While the park doesn't have extensive amenities, these hookups provide a comfort option for campers needing power.
Seasonal availability: Camping seasons vary across facilities near Sherwood. Oakwood Campsites Bar and Grill operates year-round according to their listing, while Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp has a defined season from April to November, requiring winter campers to plan accordingly.
Site capacity planning: When bringing multiple vehicles or larger tent setups, Northern Unit Greenbush Group Camp provides ample space. One camper mentioned having "six tents, but the site could easily have accommodated more," making it suitable for family reunions or larger camping groups.
